Joanna Pomilio,
Raleigh, North Carolina
I am a busy mom with two young boys and I enjoy running as much as possible in my free time.
This year, I am running for my sister, Mallory who just turned 41.I have watched her grow up with Rett syndrome.She is a patient observer at holidays and family events.She enjoys watching everyone and has lots of smiles.I often wonder what she would say if she could. As a runner, I’ve been looking for ways to combine that activity with a way to raise money for research.This opportunity will also be a great way to bring more awareness to the cause.The Boston Marathon is an internationally recognized event and the chance for people from around the world to learn more about Rett syndrome.
Lori Mitchener,
North Reading, MA
I have run on three continents. Yet, these 26.2 miles coming up in April will mean more to me than any other previous miles.
This year, I am running for two lovelies in my hometown. These two identical twins with Rett syndrome were classmates of my youngest son. Every day, he would come home and tell me about their day--the triumphs, frustrations, and their smiles. Even my little preschooler who was not expected to live beyond two hours, would come home and tell me about the twins first.
Ava and Julianna smile with their whole faces. It is an amazing sight and I am fortunate to know them. So when I run the 115th Boston Marathon, I will do it proud to draw attention to Rett syndrome and proud of all these two little girls have accomplished so far.
Peter teGroen,
Quinton, VA
This will be my 67th Marathon but this year will be important because I am running in honor of a very special six-year-old little girl. Her name is Emma Jean.
Since we understand the support families with a Rett child need, my wife, Peggy, and I do what we can to help Emma Jean and her family.
More research is needed to understand Rett syndrome and I am hoping that my fundraising efforts will bring families closer to a cure.
Will Howe,
Middleboro, MA
I have run several half-marathons and this will be my second Boston Marathon.
This year, I am running in honor of Jilly and my good friends, Jennifer and Justin of Cape Cod.
This is a great opportunity for me to raise money for research so that we can cure Rett syndrome--soon!
Deb Hetherington,
Richmond, VA
I met a woman, Emilie, at a fitness class and I learned that she had three children, the oldest daughter having Rett syndrome. At the time, I knew nothing about this disorder. Emilie learned the same day that I was running the Boston Marathon and asked if I would consider running on the Rett team. She gave me a card with information about her daughter, their webpage and her blog. I was touched by her story, and so impressed with her ability to meet the needs of her family despite the hurdles she encounters each day. In comparison, my life has no hurdles, and I feel fortunate to have been given this opportunity to help make a difference for a family like Emilie’s.
Gordon Christie,
Katy, TX
I am running the Boston Marathon for my daughter Catherine who has Rett syndrome.
This will be my first Boston Marathon for which I qualified by running the Twin Cities Marathon in 2:58.
I ran the Houston Marathon in 2:52:32 and also the Surfside Beach 50K in 3:38:32.
It is my goal to run Sub 3 hours in Boston this year but also to raise awareness for Rett that is still unknown to so many.
Also running for Team Rett:
David and Nicole Hughson
Donate Now to Team Rett